KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) coach Xisco Munoz is not pressing the panic button despite his side opening their AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Buriram United.
Antonio Glauder’s 28th-minute strike was not enough for JDT as goals from Suphanat Muenta (50th) and Robert Zulj (54th) secured all three points for Buriram at home and extended their unbeaten record against the Southern Tigers to five matches.
Munoz admitted the result was tough to take but believes the experience in Thailand will serve as a valuable lesson ahead of their clash against Japanese club Machida Zelvia on Sept 30.
“There were many positives, especially in terms of controlling the game and attacking. However, the woodwork and the brilliance of their goalkeeper (Neil Etheridge) denied us,” said Munoz in the post match press conference
“In football, you cannot afford to give opponents space, especially inside the penalty box, as it can change the entire rhythm of the match. What matters now is that we learn from this mistake and come back stronger.”
“I believe in all my players. They will rise again and achieve more success in the future.”
Meanwhile, JDT striker Joao Figueiredo admitted that the defeat is painful but insisted that the Southern Tigers’ spirit remains intact.
The Harimau Malaya hitman said the team had prepared thoroughly before the trip to Thailand, with every player showing full commitment, but luck was simply not on their side.
Figueiredo came close to being the hero, with his effort inside the first minute disallowed and his 60th-minute header rattling the crossbar.
“We prepared well for Buriram but it just wasn’t JDT’s day. We are disappointed to lose the first match, but there are many more games to come and we must quickly correct our weaknesses,” he said.
“I’m not disappointed because I gave everything on the pitch, it was just that luck wasn’t with me this time. The important thing is that we remain united as a team, with no one acting selfishly.”
“Of course, the coach will review the Buriram game and fix the shortcomings. I believe we will return stronger for the next match.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
